JINJIANG, China, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Four players scored 10-plus points to help Liaoning Flying Leopards defeat Fujian Sturgeons 101-85 in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) on Sunday, ending the home team's four-game winning streak.
Guo Ailun notched 25 points and six assists for the visitors, while Brandon Bass contributed 24 points plus seven rebounds. Lance Stephenson came off the bench for a double-double of 14 points and 11 assists.
Fujian kept a low 37 percent shooting percentage throughout the game as the reigning MVP Wang Zhelin only made four baskets out of 16 attempts for 19 points and 11 rebounds.
"We didn't do well in the past two games, but tonight, we improved the attacking rhythm and combination play in the match," Liaoning coach Guo Shiqiang said.
Liaoning had a good start thanks to some stout defense and He Tianju's first 3-pointer, and led 22-15 after the opening quarter. However, the hosts tied the game 44-44 into the half-time break thanks to 12 points from Wang.
In the third quarter, Fujian lost their shooting rhythm while Bass hit three consecutive shots for a 71-62 advantage for Liaoning who were able to keep their opponents at arm's length in the final quarter to seal an easy victory.
"This is Liaoning. It is difficult to play against this top team. We have to be realistic and know who we are," rued Fujian head coach Aleksandar Kesar.
Liaoning will visit Zhejiang Lions in the next round on Tuesday, while Fujian will have a six-day break before taking on Tianjin Pioneers on Saturday.
